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The highly anticipated public unveiling of the "Lapeer Montage" will take place at Gallery 194 from 6-8 p.m. May 30. For the first time publicly, artist James Conner will reveal his unique rendering of the city of Lapeer.

The County Press commissioned the Grand Blanc artist to create an historic rendering of Lapeer landmarks for the non-profit Lapeer gallery using pen, ink and water. Partnering in the project are Lapeer County Bank & Trust, Lapeer County Medical Care Facility, (Suncrest), Lapeer Regional Medical Center, Mott Community College and Muir Brothers Funeral Home in Lapeer.

Conner has photographed area landmarks and researched Lapeer's history over the past several months. The finished work, which has been seen by only a handful of people, is described as a timeless representation of the Lapeer community.

"We're really excited about it," said Gallery 194 Director Carolyn McCarter. "I purposely haven't seen it, because I knew I would ruin the surprise by telling everyone. I've seen his other work, and I'm truly impressed. He knows how to capture the essence of a community."

Following the unveiling, the Lapeer Center for the Arts Council will host a free reception with mini montage give-a-ways, food, music and an opportunity to meet the artist to share stories of Lapeer generated by the artwork. Limited edition prints of the original montage will be on sale while the supply lasts.

"We'll offer montage items for sale from $12 to $250," McCarter said. "The gallery will have 50 full-sized and low numbered prints on hand. Small prints and large montage coffee mugs will be for sale. Because Gallery 194 Elevate the Arts Fund is set up through the Lapeer County Community Foundation, purchasers will also have a tax write off."

The gallery's anticipated sale of $32,000 in artwork will be used as seed money to leverage matching grants for a $141,000 elevator project. Funds will be used to create a barrier-free access to the gallery's lower level.

Currently the 4,000-square-feet basement is utilized sporadically for art instruction, storage and office space.

"We're growing, and we want everyone to be able to participate," McCarter said. "We have to have a way for everyone to access and enjoy what we have to offer."

Businesses and agencies also rent the gallery as a backdrop to hold special events. At a recent affair, music was upstairs, while food was served in the lower level. Because there was no elevator, some patrons were unable to fully enjoy the function.

"We hope to remain as a hub for community arts, and improve the quality of the community's life," McCarter said. "Access for everyone is important."

Gallery 194, located next to the PIX Theatre on Nepessing Street in downtown Lapeer, opened its doors in October 2005 with the vision of becoming the center of "all things art" for the Lapeer community. The center has two spacious galleries, a gift shop, coffee shop, and hosts art classes and special events.

After the unveiling, the Lapeer Montage will join pieces of Conner's other artwork on display at Gallery 194 from May 27 through June 14.

For more information or to order an advance print, contact McCarter at (810) 664-1495. cmccarter@ci.lapeer.mi.us.
Susan Younger may be reached at (810) 664-0811, Ext. 8122 or susan.younger@lapeergroup.com.